We were delighted to host our new local MP, the Hon Dr Katrina Stratton MLA at NCARD today, having invited her to visit us when we sent a congratulatory letter on her historic electoral win. Dr Stratton – Katrina – is the first Labor MP, and the first woman, to hold the Seat of Nedlands since it was founded in 1930. Generous with her time, Katrina met with the senior team of researchers, went on a tour of the laboratory with several of our PhD students, and joined us for lunch.

Plenty of discussion about Katrina’s social work background, the role of NCARD in international research, how to share the richness of WA medical research with parliamentarians, and the fact that the not-for-profit sector – which includes public health and education – is the second largest employer in the State.

Katrina was extremely interested to hear about the forthcoming Kindness in Science panel discussion and said she would set about the task of finding a parliamentary pair so that she can attend.  “The event combines many of my interests – kindness, gender equity, and research!” We look forward to seeing more of our MP.